There are many reasons to consider bartending as a career opportunity; it is fast-paced, social, and rewarding. You’ll be able to choose from various establishments, and with a flexible schedule, you can work around your responsibilities. If you’re an aspiring bartender, you’re likely wondering whether bartending in Australia offers flexible work arrangements. Let’s delve deeper into this topic so that you can plan a career in this fun and challenging industry.
Bartending Is a Great Career Option
If you’re a people person, bartending could be your perfect career. There’s never a dull moment. When you aren’t chatting to clients, drawing on your creative prowess to pour delicious cocktails, handling payments, and keeping your workstation clean, it’s up to you to ensure you are serving alcohol responsibly. Wherever you work, in a bar, hotel, or restaurant, there’s always room for growth and career development. You can climb the ladder to a supervisory or management role with dedication and commitment.
To start your bartending career, you must be 18 years or older and hold a responsible service of alcohol (RSA) certificate, which you can obtain through an accredited hospitality training institute. For that extra boost, you can pursue a hospitality certificate to broaden your career options.
What Are Typical Bartender Working Hours in Australia?
Bartending often requires long hours over the weekend, during the week, or on holidays. Bartending work is typically broken up into shifts. You can expect two to three shifts per day, ranging from eight to twelve hours at a time. The opening and closing times will vary depending on the establishment and clientele. Your manager will draw up a roster, with the typical week requiring between 30 and 40 hours. While you may work past 2 am, shift work may give you the necessary flexibility.
Factors That Affect Flexible Working Arrangements
The flexibility available to bartenders varies depending on various factors, such as your skill level, the industry standard, and whether the position is full-time or part-time. During job applications and interviews, it’s best to discuss employer policies and procedures, the typical workweek, your own schedule, and the needs of the establishment. Though bartending is typically known for its flexibility, it’s better not to assume an employer can offer such working arrangements. If the role is in a bar or nightclub, you can certainly expect to work late into the night. You may find employers offering flexible working arrangements as a perk to attract and retain staff when the job market is competitive.
The Benefits of Flexible Bartending Work
There are many benefits to flexible working arrangements. They allow you to pursue other interests, such as studying; they are helpful if you are a parent, carer, or have a disability. Flexibility is also great if you are looking for a work-life balance. If you’re traveling with a working visa, whether internationally or locally, flexible work also allows you to experience new cities.
All you need to do to start your bartending career is enrol in a responsible service of alcohol (RSA) course. To be a bartender in Australia, you are legally required to have this qualification. This course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to provide quality service while ensuring the safety of your customers. Get the ball rolling and enrol in a comprehensive bartending or RSA with a reputable training school today.
